PEUGEOT has launched its own dealership-based fast-fit service, in a move designed to win back trade from independent chains. Peugeot Express Fit currently operates at 10 dealerships around the country, but the manufacturer hopes to double that number by the end of the year and have a centre in every major urban area within five years. It follows the introduction of similar operations by Ford and Vauxhall, in the form of Ford Rapid Fit and Vauxhall Masterfit.

A Peugeot spokesman said the company had been researching the project for a couple of years, examining the best ways to handle what is a very different operation to those already run by the company. He said traditional dealership services would remain an integral part of the company, particularly as vehicles became even more sophisticated.